So the four of us have been in El Tunco for just over four days now. It is a beautiful spot on the West coast, seemingly far off the English speaking, beaten trail. However, despite this factor working against us we have managed to make some good buds that are local to the town, hooking it up with free surf lessons, guided hikes to amazing and remote waterfalls, and showed us what proper El Tunco night life is all about. In light of this we give you a lesson in making new friends when you cannot even speak in full sentences to each other.

Lesson #1; Start off with a surf lesson. After being beaten to near death by mother nature, while having snot and hair hanging everywhere, you will establish a level of basic comfort with your prospective new friends. There is no need for talk when you are swallowing salt water.

Lesson #2; After said lesson, join your prospective pals for one to six El Salvadorian Pilesners at the local bar. If at any point an awkward silence breaks out due to language barriers, order another round and result to thumb wars and arm wrestling competitions.

Lesson #3; Do not take offense when you know prospective friends may be blatently talking about you in Spanish in front of you. Hope that it is something nice, because it probably is… right?

Lesson #4; Learn the local handshake.

Lesson #5; Show them how to shotgun.